So I take it from reading quite a bit about XC70s that trannys can be problematic. I'm coming from an '03 Saab 95aero wagon with Aisin Warner 5sp auto that had ***surprise*** tranny issues, and would really like to avoid going down this road again.

Is there a definitive list of what specific model years/engine combos etc that are to be avoided? Are the issues a matter of when, not if?

 

OK so far I've heard 2004 and later are less of a risk. Did the design change in 2004? Are there simply fewer failures due to less age/miles? Did they go with an entirely different unit?

 

• 2006–2009 Pontiac Torrent 3.4L engine only (GM code M09 (FWD), M45 (AWD))
• 2004–2009 Chevrolet Equinox 3.4L engine only (GM code M09 (FWD), M45 (AWD))
• 2003–2004 Saturn Ion sedan only (GM code M43)
• 2003–2005(?) Volvo XC90 2.5T engine only
• 2002–2008 Lancia Thesis
• 2002–2008 Opel Vectra C and Opel Signum
• 2002–2003 Saturn Vue V6
• 2003-2007 Saab 9-3 (GM code M09)
• 2002-2009 Saab 9-5
• 2004-2006 Nissan Maxima, Nissan Quest, Nissan Altima under Nissan part number RE5F22A, built by Aisin
• 2001-2007 Renault Laguna V6 and 2.2dci (code SU1)
• 2001-2009 Volvo S60
• 2001-2007 Volvo V70 P2 series
• 1999-2006 Volvo S80 (2.5 B5244S, B5254T)
• 2007-2013 Volvo C30
• 2001-2012 Volvo S40
• 2004-2012 Volvo V50
• 2000 Volvo non turbo & R model V70 P80 series
• 2007-2008 Suzuki XL7
• 2009 Chevrolet EPICA (2.5L Petrol Engine)

I was able to find this list on Wiki, but am assuming it is is some way incomplete as it does not even mention the XC70. It is for the AF33, otherwise known as AW55-50SN for FWD or AW55-51SN. This is the tranny I have in my '03 9-5 Aero and I am not interested in having another one unless I can find evidence that it has been improved greatly.

 

04 and later seem to have fewer issues. Not sure why, we don't rebuild them.

 

I went with an '04